Prior to the early 1970s, Williamsport’s City Council met under a commission form of government, when the council and the mayor governed the city as one legislative body. Each councilman, including Chester D. Wolfe (featured in Room 205), was in charge of a department, and the mayor was the head of public affairs, including both the police and fire departments.

In 1972, a “strong mayor form of government” was adopted by the city. Under this structure, the mayor is the chief executive officer and names his own department heads. City Council acts as a legislative body. Councilman Chester D. Wolfe, director of public safety, once used “The Council Room” as his office.

“THE COUNCIL ROOM” (Room 205) has an open bathroom and is brightly lit by the six tall windows that form the semi-hexagonally-shaped bedroom. Like the other traditional rooms, with their large windows and soft colors, this room has a very comfortable atmosphere, taking advantage of the original charm and character of this old city hall.

A “SPECIAL THANKS” goes to the family of Chester D. Wolfe, who so graciously offered a piece of their family’s past to share with our guests.

Mr. Wolfe, in a statement once requested by The Sun, said “I will do my conscientious best to carry out the wishes of the people. My interest lies with the rank and file and I am open to suggestions by taxpayers of the city. Such must be the case, for advice is essential for better government.”